Hi! I just found your blog and have started reading from inception. So much of what you went through with your husband is what I am going through right now with mine. (except the verbal outbursts). I know what it is like to feel ashamed and then when you finally open up to your friends they often are so willing to help you just by listening. Saying I look forward to reading more of your story doesn't really sound right, but I do look forward to reading about yours and your daughter's survival. Thank you for this!

Thank you for your kind comments. I am so sorry you are going through the same nightmare with your husband. It never surprises me just how much alcoholism is out there, but uually kept behind closed doors. It is easy to think you are the only person going through this until you discover there are hundreds and thousands around you. The problem seems to be getting much worse too. I don't know where you are from, but try to get along to a local Al-Anon meeting (there is a link to the UK site at the top right of my blog, but you may live outside the UK in which case just google Al-Anon). It is there for the relatives of alcoholics and is a spiritual programme to help YOU cope with life. It is not about helping the alcoholic to stop drinking (in most cases that is impossible), but it is try to help you recover YOUR life. It often helps just to meet people in the same boat and to let off steam sometimes.

Thank you both for your support. While I did try Al-Anon 10 years ago and was unable to find a meeting that felt good to me, I realize the meetings would be different after so many year (as in participants)and am actually looking at a schedule for meetings. I am also starting one on one counseling this month with an alcohol conselor.Yes it is interesting to find out that what you thought was secret your friends already knew.BTW I live in California, USA but in 2011 had the wonderful opportunity to vist London while my daughter was doing an internship. Can't wait to go back! Will wirte again after I finish what I have missed of your blog. Bless you!

I don't care what anyone says a visit from the Queen, especially in these times of ours, is a cheering experience. I zoomed in and couldn't see her, then I realised that the car is enormous and she sits so beautifully far back.

About Me

London housewife, mother of a 23-year-old daughter (Kay), chauffeur, cleaner, cook, nurse, paperwork manager, interior decorator, gardener, carer (for elderly mum), once-upon-a-time dog-walker (to Snoopy) and part-time individual (well, that's how I feel after I've done all the above!) Trying to cope with the stresses and strains of watching my alcoholic husband (Greg) sink slowly from my grasp - he died in March 2010.
My story is true. Only our names have been changed to maintain our anonymity. Look at my Blog Archive to read my story from the beginning.